Many people report that they find having a dog as a pet can help them with their depression.
It means they have to exercise the dog and there is much evidence that walking is helpful for depression (along with eating well).
It also means that they are connecting to someone by having a pet in their lives and it means they have to think about the dog and the dog’s needs.
Also when out walking there may be social interaction and contact with others.
Some people say having full responsibility for a dog is a bit too much for them, so they walk their neighbours’ dogs
